is the Feast of the Archangels
Michael, Gabriel and Raphael. Each of their names
reflects God (the “El” in their names is a Hebrew word for
God). Michael means “Who is like God?”; Gabriel means
“Power of God” and Raphael means “God’s remedy.” All
of these Archangels are mentioned in Sacred Scripture.
Michael and Gabriel are both mentioned in the Book of
Daniel. Michael is even referred to as a prince and the
guardian of Israel. Additionally, Michael and Gabriel
appear in the New Testament. Gabriel is, of course, the
angel of the Annunciation. Michael is cited in the Letter of
Jude as fighting the devil for the body of Moses. Michael
does not revile the devil, but simply says “The Lord
rebuke you.” It is also Michael in the Book of Revelation
who casts out Satan and the rebel angels.
Raphael plays a pivotal role in the Book of Tobit in the
Old Testament. He pretends to be human but eventually
reveals himself as the guardian angel of Tobias, Tobit’s
son.
Chief among them all is Michael. Whether his name is
a question or a statement, I cannot say. As a statement
his name would indicate that he is a close reflection of
God. This would certainly be in accord with his being the
leader of all the angels. As a question, however, his
name would indicate that, in fact, no one is “like” God.
God is unique, completely other. Whether or not his
name is a question or a statement with regard to the
angel himself, the name can only be a question if borne
by a human.